Can Diogo Dalot be Manchester United’s Future Right-Back?

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 27: Diogo Dalot of Manchester United reaction during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United at Selhurst Park on February 27, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

Will Diogo Dalot be a Consistent Starter Next Season?

It’s a surprise that Antiono Valencia has made just five league appearances this season. The Ecuadorian has been United’s first choice right-back for some time. However, since being injured, others have had time to prove themselves. Due to Luke Shaw‘s incredible turn around at Old Trafford, Ashley Young has slotted into the right-back position. This pushes Valencia further down the pecking order, as Diogo Dalot profits with appearances.

Diogo Dalot at Right-Wing

Young starting may have hindered Dalot’s chances, but Ole Gunnar Solksjaer had different plans, pushing Dalot further up the pitch and using him as an attacker. With the number of injured players reaching double figures, Solksjaer took a risk playing Dalot at right-wing.

The Portuguese had a good day at Selhurst Park in United’s win against Crystal Palace last Wednesday. He didn’t seem phased about the change of position, producing stepovers and great balls into the area; he flourished in his new role. He also featured as a substitute in Saturday’s home game against Southampton. He made an immediate impact as United searched for the equaliser. Dalot has two assists so far this season and with Paul Pogba out for the Paris Saint-Germain game, he may have another impactful appearance in France.

Transfer Window

Dalot hasn’t claimed his place in the starting line-up just yet. With the summer transfer window approaching, United will hope they can purchase a right-back to replace Valencia. Players like João Cancelo and Aaron Wan-Bissaka could be potential targets. Should Solskjaer sign a right-back, this could drop Dalot to the bench – unless there are plans to keep him on the wing.